'Iconic' Morph model sold for £1,100 at auction

The eight-inch plasticine model was first created in 1977 and made its debut in the BBC children’s programme Take Hart

One of Aardman's most iconic creations has been sold for £1,100 at auction.

Donated by the animation company co-founder Peter Lord, the eight-inch model of Morph was sold at Clevedon Salesrooms to raise money for St Peter's Hospice, Bristol.

It comes with a letter from Mr Lord, saying it is a "genuine hand-made Morph".

“Morph is such a recognisable and iconic character; the new owner will be lucky to have a little piece of Bristol history on their shelf,” said the charity's e-commerce manager Sally McCleary.

Morph was one of Aardman Animations' first creations, appearing on-screen in 1977.

The animated plasticine character made his debut in the BBC children’s programme Take Hart, alongside artist and presenter Tony Hart.

Aardman's co-founder and creative director, Peter Lord, has donated the model along with a hand-written letter of authentication

Now with a loyal base of nostalgic fans, mischievous Morph has a growing audience of children who follow his adventures on YouTube and Sky Kids.

Ms McCleary said previous Morph pieces, sold with animation letters and stills, had reached bids of up to £800.

"Receiving a special item like this is so wonderful," she said.

Ms McCleary added that the money would "go towards patient care at our hospice and in the community."

The hospice offers free support and care to adults who are living with a progressive life-limiting illness in the Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset area.

"We are delighted to have been able to help local charity St Peter’s Hospice raise funds for the invaluable care and support they give," said Chris Yeo, senior valuer at Clevedon Salerooms.

“From the moment he appeared almost 50 years ago the public took Morph to their hearts and this record-breaking result shows that the little plasticine man has lost none of his appeal."